Andy Dalton gives initial take on working with Jameis Winston in New Orleans

The Saints brought Andy Dalton to New Orleans as insurance for Jameis Winston. As the former Florida State star recovers from a torn ACL, the Saints are hoping for a great partnership in their quarterback room by adding the savvy veteran.

In his introductory news conference with the Saints, Dalton spoke about how he’s in New Orleans to help Winston.

“This is his thing, and I’m here to help him out in any way that I can,” Dalton said. “So, I’m excited to work with him, excited to be in the same room, and see everything I can do to help him out to make him the best player he can be.”

Moreover, the first chapter in Dalton’s career was written as a starting quarterback. However, after the Cincinnati Bengals decided to move on, the former TCU star has began to relish the mentor role over his time with the Cowboys and the Bears.

“I think for me, obviously I’ve played my whole career, and even a couple years ago when I was in Dallas, with the unfortunate injury that Dak had, I was able to come in,” Dalton said, regarding his new role. “And then going into last year, was the starter until I got hurt, and then Justin took over. But how it’s been, and where I’m at, I’m here to help and serve and do everything I can just to help the team and to help the quarterback room, and to make us the best offense that we can be, so whatever role that is, I’m here for it.”

While every quarterback believes they can get the job done, Dalton knows he’s in New Orleans to help Winston be the best he can be.

“I feel like my experience will bring a lot,” Dalton said.

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Moreover, Andy Dalton is continuing his lengthy NFL career with the Saints, as he ventures into the NFC South as Jameis Winston’s backup. However, the former TCU star will be ready at a moments notice to get back into the game.

Over eleven NFL seasons, Dalton has started 148 games. First, he had his best seasons with the Bengals, leading them to the playoffs multiple times. Then, he went home to Texas to backup Dak Prescott in Dallas, but the wheels fell off the Cowboys season as Dalton was uneven. Finally, the Bears signed him as their bridge between the past and the future, but Justin Fields took over full-time as Matt Nagy tried to save his job.

Now, Andy Dalton will do what he can to keep Jameis Wisnton focused on the task at hand. Still, don’t discount the Saints if Winston is to go down again — Dalton is more than capable.